10 Things To Consider When Selecting Natural Stone For Your Home

When selecting natural stone for your renovation or new custom build home, it’s important to have in mind that as a natural construction material, its variation in color,veining and texture are inherent; each natural stone piece has a distinct veining that makes it ‘one-of-a-kind’.

Your contractor/installer must do some research to determine the range of the specified natural stone color(s) that are available , for the quantities required in your project(s), which means that you should be able to have access to sample pieces that are as large as possible to allow you to see the variation in veining and color of the stone selected. Characteristics such as veining and mineral deposits will affect each piece. Natural Stone varies from quarry to quarry , from slab to slab and block to block, you need to make sure that the material will fit and meet your home or office project’s specifications and expectations. All natural stone is unique. Remember, no two stones are alike.

Depending on your natural stone type and color selection, it can be three-dimensional and used as and architectural or ornamental feature including water features, pillars, tile, flagstone, veneer and even furniture pieces. When used in exterior applications, natural stone has also proven superior to manufactured or engineered products in withstanding the effects of nature when it’s specified, installed and maintained professionally.

It is essential that appropriate installation, sealing and grouting materials are used, for every specific use, material and application conditions.

Since natural stone tiles, for example are cut from blocks, the color/veining may be consistent within one crate but vary from crate to crate.

All natural stone must be sealed to prevent etching, scratching and delay staining

A maintenance program should be established for sealing and cleaning of all natural stone.

Via high definition photographs such as the ones shown below (Onyx and Marble slabs), you should be able to appreciate the variation within a slab and from slab to slab, that way you can decide how to include it into your home improvement projects.

The variation in veining that natural stone offers and it’s rustic or contemporary appeal are characteristics that will make your project stand out from the rest – naturally! Classic, modern or rustic, warm and inviting, you can count on a distinctive look, natural stone work will charm your friends and family; and it will definitely add sex appeal to every room in your house/office.

When considering using natural stone for your home or office project, you will want to consider the properties of the different types of stone to determine which natural stone is best for the job. Let us help you source the appropriate stone for your project.